Clear Channel Goes Digital in Chicago

The nation’s largest radio broadcaster is moving more deeply into digital transmission. Some Clear Channel stations already had participated in HD Radio through Ibiquity testing. But now stations smooth jazz WNUA(FM) and urban adult contemporary WVAZ(FM) in the major market of Chicago are broadcasting hybrid analog/digital signals from a new transmitter facility atop the John Hancock Center. WNUA broadcasts at 95.5 MHz. WVAZ is at 102.7. Chicago is the third-largest market for radio with a population of 9 million. “Clear Channel has a long history of investing in technologies that we believe will make a difference to our radio stations and the people who listen to them,” said Clear Channel Senior Vice President of Engineering Jeff Littlejohn. “Our current plan starts with the rollout of HD Radio technology in select large-market stations. Assuming phase one goes well, we will then look at the feasibility of wider implementation.” Ibiquity President/CEO Bob Struble said Clear Channel has “committed itself as a role model for other broadcast leaders considering the important transition to digital.” Six other Clear Channel stations are slated to add HD Radio soon.